By Laura Dyrda
Stryker reported a slight net sales increase for the first quarter of 2015 and earnings were better than expected.
“We are pleased with our first quarter results, with another strong quarter of nearly 6 percent organic sales growth and disciplined expense management,” said Chairman and CEO Kevin Lobo. “We expect this momentum, which is balanced across segments and regions, to continue and are raising the low end of full year sales and earning guidance.” 
Here are 12 key trends from the report:
1. Consolidated net sales were up 3.2 percent in the quarter compared to the same period last year. Net sales were up 7.1 percent, driven by unit volume increases and product mix changes.
2. There was an unfavorable impact from foreign currency exchange rates that negatively impacted the net sales.